What is an adult neuropsychological assessment? A clinician's guide

A neuropsychological assessment is a structured evaluation of how your brain is functioning. It carefully maps cognitive abilities (attention, memory, language, processing speed, and executive functioning) and integrates the person's history, medical conditions, and mental health alongside the cognitive profile. Dr. Amitai Abramovitch is a clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist in Austin and an active researcher in cognitive functioning and psychopathology, who provides comprehensive adult assessment in person and via telehealth across Texas and Florida.

What is a neuropsychological evaluation, and why might I need one?

It combines a detailed clinical interview with standardized, validated tests of cognitive skills. People seek one to clarify a diagnosis (for example, ADHD versus anxiety or OCD), to understand the nature and extent of cognitive difficulties, for complex or unclear presentations, or for a second opinion after an earlier diagnosis didn't fit.

What happens during the assessment, and how long does it take?

You will be interviewed about your history and concerns, then complete a series of paper-and-pencil and computerized tasks (answering questions, remembering information, solving problems, and working with attention and speed). Length varies with the questions being asked; a focused evaluation is shorter, while a comprehensive one takes longer and is typically scored and interpreted to produce a detailed report, which is then presented in a feedback session (usually 1 to 3 weeks after the assessment).

What's the difference between psychological and neuropsychological testing?

Psychological assessment generally focuses on mood, personality, and symptoms. Neuropsychological testing measures cognitive functioning such as attention, memory, and executive skills, and how those relate to a person's mental health dynamics and everyday difficulties.

When should an adult get neuropsychological testing?

Consider it when a diagnosis is uncertain, when conditions may be co-occurring, when cognitive symptoms are affecting work or study, or when you want a thorough, objective picture before committing to a treatment plan. In some cases, the reason is that a person feels their cognitive capacities and abilities have changed, or that they are struggling with functions that were once effortless.

Frequently asked questions

Does insurance cover neuropsychological testing? Coverage varies by plan and reason for testing. The practice is out-of-network and provides a superbill you can submit for possible reimbursement.

Can an assessment tell ADHD apart from anxiety or OCD? Yes. Clarifying whether attention difficulties stem from ADHD, another condition, or both is one of the most valuable uses of a neuropsychological evaluation.

Is it available via telehealth? Much of the process can be conducted via secure telehealth across Texas and Florida; your clinician will advise when in-person testing is preferable.

Where to next

Read more about adult neuropsychological assessment in Austin, or contact Dr. Abramovitch to discuss whether an evaluation fits your situation.